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Breakfast is always something I often miss due to my habit of sleeping in or sometimes simply just not having an appetite right away in the AM. However – whenever I know I’m doing a breakfast episode for Camille’s Choice I get extremely giddy until the day comes. For my last episode of Camille’s Choice, I brought my good friend Morgan with me to Rico’s Family Restaurant in Kaukauna for the worlds biggest brunch.

First off it was the perfect day to grab a nice warm meal in the cozy environment that Rico’s has to offer. It was raining and so gloomy outside that all I wanted was a nice cup of coffee and something to warm my belly. Sure enough, the coffee was delicious and a great start. Not only that, but the Rico’s staff are so friendly and welcoming that their presence warms you up as well. As soon as you walk in the door the feeling of “I would totally come here with my family for a Sunday morning brunch” fills your heart and you feel at home.

Our experience continued with an awesome server. He gave us the low-down on what was good, and what was to die for. So naturally, we took his best recommendations and rolled with it. His face lit up every-time he talked about the food and the flavors that they all provided with their dishes – it was so obvious that he loved his job.

For our first dish – an appetizer of course. Because even though it was nine in the morning, courses are still important when you’re getting to know a new spot. We ordered their quesadillas, plain. Sounds typical, I know, but they were very tasty. The cheese was melty – not too little where it wasn’t gooey, but also not so much that it’s like drinking nacho cheese. And all of the spices and veggies on the side made them tasty for Morgan and I to enjoy all four pieces (oops).

Our entree’s were a mixture of breakfast and lunch – and we did happen to get three entrees for the two of us to share (oops, again). We started with their Mexican omelet that Morgan could not get enough of.With the omelet, they gave us a potato pancake for Morgan to try for the first time. I told her she had to pair it with applesauce because… duh! She did say the texture was different but the flavor was definitely great – and she loved the applesauce with it. My taste test agrees – yummy and obviously homemade.

Next we both got a “lunch” item. So yes, we had three dishes each. My lunch entree was their JT burger which essentially is every burger lovers go-to. It had “the works” and more. For starters it was 1/3 pound patty with bacon, cheese, onions, mayo, lettuce, mushrooms, and pickles – basically you name it and it was on that burger. So good and tasty, the bun was crispy from being on the grill for a bit and the mayo tied everything together. Probably one of the only good burgers I’ve ever had at 9 in the morning. Morgan got their chicken avocado wrap – which is basically exactly what the name states. However there was some bacon and secret sauce on their to spice up the wrap. She said it perfectly – “They don’t mess around with portions at Rico’s!” The wrap and burger were both huge and it was so great how you could taste each little spice and flavor the wrap had to offer. Avocado was a friendly familiar face I was happy made a visit.

If you can’t already tell, Rico’s is a must. The environment is so cozy and welcoming for a breakfast date or a family meal on a Sunday afternoon. Good coffee, big portions, and great flavors were experienced throughout our entire time. Thank you so much to Rico’s for having us for Camille’s Choice, and we can’t wait to come back and try your amazing ice cream which we’ve already gotten a lot of comments on!

Have y’all ever been to Rico’s in Kaukauna or any of their other two locations? If so – what did you order? Comment below so we have an idea for which dish to try next!

The art scene in the Fox Valley is booming the last few years, and we noticed a lot of cool opportunities for you, dates, lovers, friends, and kids to learn different skills.

Step 1: Basic Hand Lettering Class – Preparation for Calligraphy

When? September 6th

Where? Letter Create

A prerequisite for all Letter Create Workshops is the Basics Hand Lettering Class.

This class translates into all forms of writing techniques including brush lettering, calligraphy, modern flourish script, paint lettering, to name a few. It is a pencil and paper penmanship class. They recommend you take a Step 2 class if you would like to learn calligraphy, brush lettering, or flourish calligraphy.Tickets/Sign Up

Hand Lettering

Water & Skies Landscapes Watercolor Class

When? September 11

Where? : Mud & Prints

Channel your inner Bob Ross OR your inner Lee Mothes!

This is a three week class and you meet two hours each Wednesday to really develop your skills over time. Wednesday September 11th, 18th, and 25th from 6pm-8pm.

Functional Hand-building Workshop

Clay Animation (Ages 11 – 14)

When? September 18

Where? Trout Museum

Participants are in charge of every step of making a claymation. Develop a story, create clay characters, build set design, select music, and learn the basics of video movement in this fun beginner class. Students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of materials as they plan, produce, and assemble their videos. Working in teams of 2-3, students will use a stop motion app on an iPad to record their clay animations.

DIY Rug Making Class

Where? Letter Create

When? September 22

Make your own rug in this workshop. You can bring additional fabric (any type) to this workshop to create a more interesting depth to your rug. We will have a limited variety of fabrics to choose from. Cotton is the best fabric to use. T-shirts make a great option as well.

Everyone will go home with a 2×3 foot rug. If you do not finish your rug during the workshop you will take home the instructions and be able to finish your rug at home.

That crisp fall air couldn’t wait to make an appearance this year! While we all hate to see summer go so quickly, we can find comfort in the fact that fall brings a whole lot to look forward to – and it isn’t just a pumpkin spice drink!

Rooftop Yoga (& Pizza)

When? September 6th

Where? 100 N Main Building Downtown Oshkosh

Not Pictured: Oshkosh

Hosted by Dr. Stephanie Matulle. Experience serene, invigorating yoga above the hustle and bustle of the city with the sky wide open above!

HOPELAND FESTIVAL

When? September 6 & 7, 2019

Where? Titletown Brewing Company – Green Bay

A neat event in Green Bay featuring diverse and talented artists for 2 days of nonstop talent. Starting Friday at 5 PM, come out to see Cory Chisel, DJ Ross Grizzly, and many other performers that you don’t want to miss! This awesome event is FREE to get in to.

BANDS ON THE BEACH

When? September 8, 2019

Where? Neshotah Park – Two Rivers

Yes, it is as awesome as it sounds! Enjoy the crisp fall day on the beach while listening to the beautiful sounds of “Unity the Band”. The fun begins at 4 PM. Think about it… this may be your last beach experience for 2019!

LAUGH-TOBER-FEST

John Barens as “Spider Man-itowoc” at Fox Valley Comedy’s last event.

When? September 12, 2019

Where? Bare Bones Brewery – Oshkosh

Beer, comedy, and a good time! Enjoy some amazing craft beer and 3 comedians, it really doesn’t get much better than that. Grab a friend and make sure to get your tickets early as this event is known to sell out! $10 now, $15 at the door. This is an event you don’t want to miss!

OKTOBERFEST

When? September 13 & 14, 2019

Where? 8th Street Ale Haus – Sheboygan

Two days of Oktoberfest. The Mayor of Sheboygan will be tapping the Oktoberfest Keg at noon on Saturday. Sheboygan knows how to party! The fun begins on Friday at 7 PM with live music and kicks off again at 11 AM Saturday. Sheboygan won’t disappoint us – they will even be serving authentic Eisbein, Schnitzel, Rollbraten, Haus-made Bratwurst, Rueben Wraps, Kraut and German Potato Salad all day. See y’all there!

FALL FEST

When? September 14, 2019

Where? Downtown Kaukauna

Here’s a fun twist to the usual Farmer’s Market! Kaukauna is stepping up their game this day – they will be extending the hours for the marker to be from 7:30 AM to 1 PM. During this time you will have the opportunity to shop from some amazing small vendors, enjoy live music, participate in kids’ activities and the option to help out with a fundraiser. What a perfect way to end the outdoor Farmers Market season!

BEATS AND BIKES BREWERY TOUR

When? September 14, 2019

Where? Fox River Brewing Co. – Oshkosh

Get your Saturday started off right with a bike ride and a beer! Visit all 3 awesome breweries in Oshkosh with a 12 mile bike ride. Ride leisurely with the group or head off on your own – the choice is yours. You will get $1 off every beer you purchase, you will participate in a raffle, you will take home a pint glass AND a mixed 6 pack from the participating breweries. Beer lovers… does it get any better than this?

BREWS, BISTROS, AND BONFIRES

When? September 14, 2019

Where? Botanical Gardens – Green Bay

Still feeling thirsty after the Beats and Bikes Brewery Tour? Green Bay’s got you covered. Head up to the Botanical Garden to experience some amazing local beer. Samples will be provided from different microbreweries. There will be plenty of amazing food and drinks for purchase as well. Once you’re fed and have a drink in your hand, enjoy the live music by the bonfires. This may seriously be the perfect way to kick off the fall.

FALL FESTIVAL

When? September 21, 2019

Where? Vande Hey Company – Appleton

Vande Hey Company is throwing us their annual Fall Festival and it will be as awesome as you can imagine! Live music, activities for kids, hay rides, food, a chili cook off and yes….. a beer garden! The perfect combination for fun for all ages. Best of all? It’s free. The event begins at 11 AM and runs until 5 PM.

OCTOBERFEST

Credit: Post Crescent

When? September 28, 2019

Where? Downtown Appleton

That time of year again to shut down College Ave and do some day drinking! You know the drill – 9 AM to 6 PM. There will be more food options than you can wrap your head around, enough beer to keep you warm and a good time to be had.

Flourish

When? September 29th

Where? The Fox Club (At Timber Rattlers Stadium)

Flourish is a vendor driven wellness event, meant to help the Fox Valley make genuine connections with wellness providers and to learn about wellness services and products available locally.

The Event is from 10am-3pm. Tickets are $7 ahead of time. $10 at the door.

We’re seriously bummed that we can’t go to all of these events, but we hope you decide to check out a few of them. Fall season in Wisconsin is the best! Make the most of it. Which event looks the most fun to you?

Do you ever feel like sitting in the warm sand with toes in the water of a beautiful beach – but just don’t have a clue where a decent beach is located in Wisconsin? This list will help that change with the snap of a finger. Today we’re bringing you a list of 32 beaches in Northeast Wisconsin alone so you never have to question again where to enjoy your day-cation.

Note: No man made swim lakes are included in this list. Sand beaches only.

Manitowoc County

1. Point Beach State Forest

Two Rivers, WI

2. Neshotah Park

Two Rivers, WI

3. Manitowoc Silver Creek Park

Manitowoc, WI

Sheboygan County

4. Kohler-Andrae State Park

Sheboygan, WI

Note: Paid Entry

5. Deland Park

Sheboygan, WI

6. King Park

Sheboygan, WI

Note: Includes Blue Harbor Beach.

7. South Shore Beach

Sheboygan, WI

8. Fireman’s Park & Swimming Beach

Elkhart Lake, WI

Notes: Paid Entry.

Door County

9. Egg Harbor Beach

Egg Harbor, WI

Notes: Watersport Rentals Available.

10. Fish Creek Public Beach

Fish Creek, WI

Door County

11.Sister Bay Beach

Sister Bay, WI

12. Haines Beach

Sturgeon Bay, WI

13.Newport State Park (Europe Bay Beach)

Ellison Bay, WI

Notes: Two separate beaches. Both technically in Newport State Park. Europe Bay is free parking, Newport is paid.

14. Nicolet Beach

Fish Creek, WI

15. Bailey’s Harbor Ridges Park

Bailey’s Harbor, WI

16. Beach Front Stage

Sister Bay, WI

17. Whitefish Dunes State Park

Jacksonport, WI

Notes: Paid Entry

18. Clark Lake

Jacksonport, WI

19. Portage Park

Sturgeon Bay, WI

Notes: Secluded

Waupaca County

20. South Park Beach

Waupaca, WI

21. Little Silver Beach

Wild Rose, WI

Note: Paid Entry.

22. Hartman’s Creek Beach at Hartman Creek State Park

Waupaca, WI

Note: Paid Entry. Watersport Rentals.

Shawano County

23. Shawano Lake County Park

Shawano, WI

Brown County

24. Bay Shore Park

New Franken, WI

Oconto County

25. Oughton Park

Townsend, WI
(We couldn’t find a photo with the sand/beach in it – if you have any, send ’em our way!)

26. Oconto Falls East Side Beach

Oconto Falls, WI

27. Little Newton Lake Beach

Athelstane, WI

Marinette County

28. Red Arrow Park

Marinette, WI

Kewaunee County

29. City Park

Kewaunee, WI

30. Crescent Beach & Boardwalk

Algoma, WI

Fond Du Lac County

31. Mauthe Lake Beach

Campbellsport, WI

32. Wolf Lake County Park

St. Cloud, WI

Which of these Wisconsin beaches have you tried out for yourself? More importantly – which one are you going to visit first? No time to waste – snow is just around the corner!

I’m going to go ahead and start this with my definition of a “Hole-in-the-Wall” restaurant. To me, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant is a place that is small with limited or no indoor seating. Typically a place where something about the restaurant is deceiving, AKA the food surpasses the expectations set by a usually lack-luster interior or exterior. A hole-in-the-wall to me has an infamous character, a place where not everyone within a 5 mile radius eats there, but everyone in a 5 mile radius HAS eaten there. Places that are either simply great quality, passionately patronized by droves of regulars, or carry a special history or reputation when discussed in conversation. I hope this list finds you well, and gives you a few spots to go next time you and you’re friends are on the road in an unfamiliar area, or you and your partner need a new spot in town to check out.

Green Bay

Al’s Hamburger Shop

Address: 131 S Washington St, Green Bay, WI 54301

Al’s is a Green Bay classic. In the heart of Downtown Green Bay and a few doors down from the Meyer Theater, Al’s has been serving up classic American fast food since 1934! That’s older than McDonald’s (Est. 1940)

Joe’s Texas BBQ

Address: 1800 S Ashland Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304

A quaint and long established eatery, Joe’s recently moved locations to be closer to Lambeau Field. They serve classic barbeque that surpasses the expectations of their small shop.

Taqueria Don Pancho

Address: 1807 N Irwin Ave, Green Bay, WI 54302

This “Hole in the Wall” is such a hidden gem, we haven’t heard from them online since 2016. Taqueria has very high reviews for their authentic Mexican Cuisine at very fair prices. Don’t be scared off by the exterior, the food gets high marks from their customers.

Appleton

Basil Cafe

Address: 1513 N Richmond St, Appleton, WI 54911

Basil Café is on the line as a “Hole-in-the-Wall” The location isn’t huge, but it’s big enough to accommodate, but the exterior makes the real deal feel like a mirage. From the outside, Basil appears to be basic, but once you step foot inside, you’re transported into another world! The food lives up to the expectation set by the interior. Highly regarded in the Appleton community.

Home Burger Bar

Address: 205 W College Ave, Appleton, WI 54911

Home Burger Bar is reminiscent of comfortable, delicious burger bars in larger cities like Madison and Milwaukee. Tucked in on College Ave Downtown Appleton, Home Burger Bar is clean, quirky, and delivers on their name sake, their burgers.

Mai’s Deli

Address: 104 S Memorial Dr, Appleton, WI 54911

Mai’s Deli is an awesome food shop with an awesome history. For years local immigrants sold their stuffed chicken wings essentially egg rolls but instead of the roll, the insides are stuffed into a chicken wing. Eventually, the family opened Mai’s Deli, and they’ve been consistently packed ever since. Very small, quaint location on the corner of College Ave and Memorial Drive. Mai’s Deli is a great spot for a tasty bite.

Oshkosh

Pete’s Garage

Address: 1514 Oregon St. Oshkosh WI

Pete’s has become somewhat of an unstoppable force in Oshkosh. The place barely has a chance to breath it’s often packed with warm faces, and happy customers.

Co-Owner Ryan at a Halloween event.

Leon’s

Address: 121 W Murdock Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901

Leon’s covers the Northside of Oshkosh for it’s tasty fast food, and amazing custard needs. In fact, a custard machine from Leon’s was purchased by the Culver family for their first location. I don’t have a source for this, but I heard Craig Culver say this to the owner of Leon’s at an entrepreneurship event at UW Oshkosh (Craig Culver’s alma mater).

Ardy & Ed’s

Address: 2413 S Main St, Oshkosh, WI 54902

Ardy & Ed’s on the flip side, covers the Southside of Oshkosh’s needs. Ardy and Ed’s still has car hops on roller skates that serve their customers.

Sheboygan

Shulz’s Restaurant

Address: 1644 Calumet Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53081

Shulz’s has been around for DECADES! A truly classic American dining experience, and something that you have to see for yourself.

Chester’s Drive-In

Address: 1504 Eastern Ave, Plymouth, WI 53073

Not exactly in Sheboygan, Chester’s is a classic drive in with delicious American fast food and ice cream. The drive-in is over 40 years old.

Harry’s Diner

Address: 2504 Calumet Dr, Sheboygan

Harry’s Diner is a 1950 style diner open for breakfast and lunch. If you’re looking for a unique, quaint spot for breakfast in Sheboygan, Harry’s is a great place to start.

Honorable Mentions

The Booyah Shed – Green Bay

Mr. Taco – Downtown – Appleton

My Lee’s Egg Roll House – Appleton

Rhapsodies – Oshkosh

Notes

Hole-in-the-wall restaurants are interesting because they are always changing. For example, Joe’s Texas BBQ, just moved locations. Plus, sometimes new joints emerge or old ones lose their consistency. As Venture Wisconsin grow, and we learn more about Northeast Wisconsin, we will share the knowledge with you! What’s your favorite hole-in-the-wall? Do you agree with our definition? Let me know in the comments.

There’s over 25 wineries in Northeast Wisconsin! No surprise… We wanted to bring you some of the wineries that aren’t Downtown or right off a major route. These are the wineries that are tucked into the woods a little bit.

If you love learning about wine, trying new wines, or spending an afternoon sippin’ with your buddies you have got to check out some of these amazing spots. We’ve compiled a list of 26 different wineries here in Northeast Wisconsin (yes, just Northeast – it’s nuts) for you to skim through and enjoy on your next Sunday Funday.

EAA Air Venture just celebrated it’s 50th year in Oshkosh, and the EAA brand and their flagship week long event have become an international brand that’s put Oshkosh on the map on a level akin to Oshkosh B’gosh. We’ve been hearing a lot recently about the massive economic impact of the event on Northeast Wisconsin. We’ve been watching the online word of mouth for the event build, and we’ve learned some things about EAA Air Venture you may not have known.

The event, and it’s seemingly obscure location in our amazing, quaint city of Oshkosh, has become a nickname for the event itself. Many people from around the country and around the world who have been coming to the event for a few years Tweet things like., “Oshkosh starts today.” People in their lives know this to mean, they are headed to EAA Air Venture

There were Tweets of people quoting their dads referring to EAA Air Venture as simply “Oshkosh.” If you say “I’m headed to Oshkosh” in any state that isn’t Wisconsin, and July is near, you can assume they’re going to EAA Air Venture.

Tweets about the 2019 event from around the world.

2. It’s the most attended aviation event in the world

EAA Air Venture has consistently brought in more than 500,000 visitors over the past few years. What makes EAA so popular? The event brings together programming and excitement for all ages and all aviation stripes. Since EAA is Experimental Aircraft Association, they bring in everything from commercial aviation, to historical, drones, model airplanes, personal aircraft, and even home built air craft.

EAA 2015. Credit: Wikipedia

3. The event started as a “fly-in” in Milwaukee

Although 2019 marked 50 years of the Air Venture event which came to Oshkosh in 1969, the event was seeded in Milwaukee in 1953, and it was called “EAA fly-in”. The event even moved to Illinois before settling in Oshkosh (I know… It hurts.)

A welcome sign at EAA. Credit: EAA.org

4. The fly-in manual before landing is 30 pages

Know as a NOTAM or Notice to Airman, the manual to read before flying in to Wittman Regional Airport is 30 pages long. They are landing over 10,000 aircraft over the span of the one week event, causing the air traffic control tower to be known as the “busiest in the world”.

A feature volunteer at EAA. Credit: EAA.org

5. The event attracts aviation loving celebrities

This year, 2019, Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins was a speaker at the event. Other aviation loving celebrities such as Harrison Ford have made stops into Oshkosh for Air Venture in the past.

Harrison Ford. Credit: Celebrity Diagnosis

6. Thousands of volunteers make the event happen

These are some interesting things we found in our research! EAA Air Venture’s 50th year was an amazing show as always. A bonus, more commonly known Air Venture fact is the economic impact of the event, over $100,000,000 in Northeast Wisconsin. What was the most surprising fact to you? Did I miss any?

It’s kind of starting to feel like summer… right? The whole state may be close to flooding, but we have got to get out and enjoy the sun! Whether you enjoy your Wisconsin summers from the comfort of your home, your cottage, or one of our beautiful state parks, don’t forget about all the fun stuff our local community puts together.

American Made – A 4th of July Music Celebration

When? Thursday July 4th

Where? Leach Amphitheater, Oshkosh

Cory Chisel & Company and the Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra will perform the songs of Tom Petty & other American music legends. Watch the fireworks from inside the Leach Amphitheater.

Outdoor Zumba – FREE

When? Wednesdays 5:30 PM – 6:15 PM

Where? Houdini Plaza

Was Zumba always on your must try list? Are you bored on Wednesday evenings? Whatever your reasoning may be, come out to try zumba for absolutely free at Houdini Plaza! You will get a great outdoor exercise while also having a blast – no better way to spend your Wednesday afternoon!

Saturday Morning Cartoons at Player2

When? July 6th – 9 AM – Noon

Where? Player 2 Arcade Bar

Saturday Morning Cartoons. Credit: Life by Olivia

Have you been dying to go to Player 2, but yours kids wouldn’t let you live it down if you left them home to go play video games? This is your chance to take them with you. Bring the kids for an early morning of an intense video game session. There will be no alcohol served, so don’t fret! These opportunities are rare but so worth it!

7000Apart at Gather on Broadway

When? July 10 – 5:30 PM

Where? Gather on Broadway (Downtown Green Bay)

Have you heard of these two yet?! If you haven’t, this is your chance. They are a husband/wife duo with so much talent to share with you. You will be moved by their music, that is written from experience and with a genuine heart.

Beats and Bikes Brewery Tour in Oshkosh

When? July 11th at 5:00 PM

Where? Fox River Brewing Co to Bare Bones Brewery

Beats & Bikes Group at Fifth Ward in Oshkosh

Meet us at Fox River Brewery for this summer’s second Thursday evening sunset ride! Cruise along the river for 6 miles as you enjoy unique brews from Fox River Brewing and Bare Bones Brewery. At the end, stick around and enjoy some live music! Tickets are $15 a person – get them in advance before prices rise! Your ticket gets you a chance at some awesome giveaways, a sampler six pack with beers from each brewery and a pint glass!

Green Bay Restaurant Week

When? July 11 – 18

Where? Participating Green Bay Restaurants

Potentially one of the coolest events to allow the community to try all sorts of different dishes in restaurants you may have never gone to! …or, the place you frequent at, we don’t judge. Find a list of the participating restaurants here. On their website you will be able to see all the meals offered and what the price point is. Hint: it is all cheaper than normal, so take advantage! You may find your new favorite Green Bay spot!

Mother/Son Date Night

When? July 16 – 4 PM

Where? Harbor Pointe Mini Golf, Sheboygan

Moms and sons have such a special bond, don’t they? Take your little boys up on a couple rounds of mini golf for a fun night of friendly competition, tasty treats and unforgettable memories.

Paperfest – FREE

When? Starts July 18th

Where? Sunset Park in Kimberly

An event that is on their 31st year… it’s gotta be good. Join the local community at Sunset Park in Kimberly for an event with plenty of live music, carnival rides, games, hot air balloons, and so much more. This is a must go to event that you won’t want to miss.

Comedy on the Patio – $15

When? July 20th – 7 PM

Where? Backlot Comedy Oshkosh

Backlot Comedy is featuring 3 comedians for some outdoor live comedy entertainment. It doesn’t get much better than that. Pretty cool opportunity for local comedy in Oshkosh!

So there you have it. So many great options, and more Independence Day celebrations than we can count, so we just picked the biggest one we could find. Get out there and enjoy your July. Summer is in full swing. We’re on top of the hill folks. Let me know what events you’re going to in July!

What are your Saturday mornings filled with? Pancakes in bed, maybe catching up on some Netflix shows, or a nice morning walk? How about a trip to your local farmers market? That is one of my favorite things to do on my Saturday’s once the summer rolls in. I love seeing all the flower and fresh vegetable stands with local vendors sharing their stories of their locally grown products, and the smell of all the local businesses selling some early afternoon snacks. So, Camille’s Choice took a trip down to the local Oshkosh farmers market to sample three things from three local businesses to show the Fox Cities some of the many things the market has to offer.

Our first stop: coffee of course. You can’t start off your Saturday the right way without enjoying a nice cup of coffee – at least in my book. What better way to enjoy your coffee than fresh and locally made?! We stopped over at JSA Roasting and went with something classic to do a true taste test. I tried their pecan flavored roasted coffee with just a splash of some almond milk creamer.

Truthfully, the coffee didn’t need any sort of additive at all. The flavor was bursting from the moment I took the lid off and took a smell. The pecan flavor was subtle but mouth-watering good. I finished my cup of (hot) coffee within 10 minutes easily in the middle of an 80 degree day – THAT’s how good it was. I normally can’t drink straight black coffee, but from JSA it would have been easy.

Next up we went to the stand literally right next door –The Roxy Club. My options were a breakfast wrap with assorted things inside (eggs, peppers, seasoning, hot sauce, sausage, etc.) or something called a kraut kuchen. Yeah trust me, the kraut thing wasn’t my first option. However, I do Camille’s Choice for a reason and that is to try new things, right? So, I went for it. I ordered out of my comfort zone and soon found myself eating a pastry stuffed with ground beef, cabbage, onions, and something called dusseldorf mustard. Going into something not wanting to eat it (like – at all) normally ruins it for people, especially me. Not even close to the case with this. It was a pleasant surprise with a flavorful and unique dish. It had a lot of bold flavors that combined perfectly. It reminded me of a classic home cooked meal with some mixed in flavors and spices that I had never tried before. Overall, it kicked me out of my comfort zone and surprised me in the best way.

Last on our list was Compassion Creamery.Who else serves ice cream nachos?! No one that I’ve heard of! Talk about a unique and fun idea. It caught my attention enough, and we had to order them. The two initial flavors we ordered were their chocolate (duh) and their vanilla with Lucky Charms cereal mixed into it. And, as if we couldn’t make it anymore sweet, we added MnM’s to our chocolate. To make the ice cream a “nacho” tray, they add little wafers to the side of your platter to scoop your ice cream with. The wafers reminded me of little flat sugar cones, but way softer and really sweet. Everything tasted really great, but I have to say I liked the chocolate way more with the wafers. Just a little less sweet than the vanilla, and I love chocolate anything and everything. 10/10 recommend trying ice cream nachos at some point in your life though – they’re so fun!

This Camille’s Choice experience was so fun and unique – and I visited three places I had never had the chance to try before and learned about them each as a local small business. There is so much Oshkosh (and other Wisconsin cities) have to offer at their farmers market that you may have no idea about. Be sure to check out the Oshkosh market, or surrounding cities to discover something new. You won’t be disappointed.

The Oshkosh farmers market is right on Main Street in downtown Oshkosh. It runs from June – October every Saturday from 8:00 to 12:30.